By Paul Odenyi
As Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu marks two years as the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), it is fitting to reflect on the remarkable digital transformation that has been unfolding under his visionary leadership. Since his appointment in October 2023, the agency has undergone a profound overhaul, embracing modern technology and innovative communication platforms to enhance its service delivery and deepen its engagement with Nigerians across the country.
At the heart of this transformation is the agency’s commitment to aligning with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes value reorientation, national unity, and inclusive development. Recognizing the critical role of communication technology in reaching the diverse Nigerian populace, NOA has strategically repositioned itself to leverage digital tools that resonate with today’s information age.
One of the flagship achievements in this digital journey is the development and deployment of CLHEEAN, NOA’s virtual assistant powered by Artificial Intelligence. Launched in July 2024, CLHEEAN represents a groundbreaking step in citizen engagement. Available on mobile devices and computers, CLHEEAN provides Nigerians with instant, accurate answers to questions about government policies, programs, and projects. This AI-powered assistant is designed to be accessible, initially communicating in English with plans to soon support multiple Nigerian languages, thereby bridging communication gaps and fostering inclusivity.
CLHEEAN is more than just a digital tool; it embodies a new era of interactive governance. By enabling citizens to engage directly with government information, it promotes transparency and empowers Nigerians to participate actively in national development. The virtual assistant also serves as a friendly guide, educating citizens about their rights and responsibilities and encouraging positive civic behavior. The innovative concept of a virtual “Superhero” like CLHEEAN, which can remind users about everyday civic duties such as proper waste disposal, exemplifies NOA’s creative approach to attitudinal change.
Complementing CLHEEAN’s capabilities is the NOA Content Factory, a digital hub dedicated to producing high-quality, timely content that explains government policies and initiatives in clear, relatable language. This content factory plays a pivotal role in demystifying complex policy matters, making them accessible to all Nigerians, including the youth and other key demographics. The agency’s focus on digital content creation ensures that information dissemination keeps pace with the fast-evolving media landscape.
NOA has also revitalized its digital infrastructure and platforms, which had suffered neglect in previous years. This includes the launch of the NOA mobile app, Mobiliser, introduced in March 2024, which offers a direct communication channel between the government and citizens, particularly targeting the youth demographic. The app facilitates real-time updates, feedback, and interactive engagement, fostering a two-way dialogue that enhances government accountability and responsiveness.
In addition to mobile platforms, NOA is expanding its broadcast capabilities with the impending unveiling of new television and radio studios. These state-of-the-art facilities will enable the agency to produce and disseminate news, features, and sectoral programs that highlight government policies and development projects. By harnessing both traditional and digital media, NOA ensures comprehensive outreach that cuts across urban and rural divides.
The digital transformation at NOA is also characterized by strategic partnerships and collaborations. For example, the agency has pledged support to the Health Reform Foundation of Nigeria (HERFON) to promote national health security through digital campaigns. Leveraging its presence in all 774 local government areas and extensive demographic databases, NOA is uniquely positioned to reach Nigerians who are not active on social media, ensuring no one is left behind in vital information dissemination.
Moreover, NOA’s digital initiatives are designed to complement its traditional grassroots engagement methods. While embracing technology, the agency continues to value the importance of house-to-house campaigns and village square interactions, recognizing that these remain effective in fostering trust and community participation. This hybrid approach ensures that the agency’s messaging is both modern and deeply rooted in local realities.
The leadership style of Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu has been instrumental in driving this digital revolution. His focus on value-driven change, staff motivation, and continuous training has reinvigorated the agency’s workforce, equipping them with the skills and tools necessary to operate effectively in a digital environment. The Expanded Strategic Management Retreat held in Abuja brought together senior officers to align their roles with the new digital agenda, emphasizing the importance of embracing technology to fulfill NOA’s mandate.
Former Directors-General and stakeholders have lauded the current DG’s innovative approach, noting that while digital transformation is vital, the agency must not abandon the proven methods of the past. This balanced perspective ensures that NOA remains relevant and effective in a rapidly changing communication landscape.
In conclusion, the digital transformation of the National Orientation Agency under Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu’s leadership marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s public communication sector. By harnessing artificial intelligence, mobile technology, digital content production, and strategic partnerships, NOA is redefining how government policies and programs are communicated to the Nigerian people. This transformation not only enhances transparency and citizen engagement but also fosters a culture of informed participation and national pride. As the agency continues to innovate and expand its digital footprint.
